Alumni and Friends Making an Impact

Ajà McMichel knew she belonged at UD since she first stepped foot on campus, but it was her UD trip to Ghana that truly guided her to find her passion.

She may have grown up in North Carolina, but Lauren Cloos always knew there was a front porch with her name on it at the University of Dayton.

Macy Buck ’25 was so appreciative of the donor-funded scholarships she received that she was determined to use the opportunity to her advantage. And she has.

Shelby Dennhardt’s life in the U.S. Air Force was regimented; he served, worked, lived and ate with his unit for four years. So when he left the Air Force, he felt listless and isolated, until he found UD’s Military and Veteran Programs and Services.

In the 1950s, University leaders had the tremendous foresight and commitment to begin buying the houses that would become what we know as the student neighborhood today. That investment ensured that the word “community” would forever be used by alumni and students as one of the first that comes to mind when describing how it feels to learn and grow at UD.

Alumni and Friends Making an Impact

For Chloe Chelovitz ’24 and Fiona Dusenberry ’24, it's never too soon to start thinking about Christmas — Christmas on Campus that is. This merry pair are the co-coordinators determined to make the 60th annual Christmas on Campus, the most magical yet.

“Leave it better than you found it.” This motto has inspired Shaq Tensley ’15 to give back to UD as a volunteer, and it has served him in his global travels. 

As we have all come back to campus for the start of a new academic year, the UD community is full of life. The campus is loud with the rustling sounds of a thousand footsteps; the academic buildings are packed with busy Flyers going to and from classes; the dining halls are filled with hungry stomachs, and the student neighborhood is lit up with front porch lights and lawn chairs. Much of the action is coming from the activities of SUA students who are networking with alumni, meeting with members of advancement, and encouraging a culture of philanthropy on campus.

Kaitlyn Redmond ’15 isn’t shy about her love for the University of Dayton. And as a Flyer Champion volunteer she shares that love, and her campus experiences, with prospective students who are considering UD.